Day 2 - 29 December - Madrid

This morning explore - by bike - the historic centre of Madrid known as the "Madrid de los Austrias" because it was built in the era of the Habsburg monarchs.  Cycling through the narrow streets and squares is the perfect way to discover the city’s charm.  See the arcaded Plaza Mayor which in the 17th century was once the scene of bullfights and the burning of heretics at the stake, today it is the scene of the delightful Christmas Market where Madrileños go to buy the figures to fill their traditonal "Belenes" the Nativity scenes which decorate every traditional home. Many churches in the area also have beautiful Belenes which you can stop to see, perhaps before popping in to enjoy some delicious hot chocolate and crisp "churros" in the marvelous Chocolatería de San Gines.This afternoon is at leisure.

This afternoon is at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel Orfila

Meal Plan: B

Day 3 - 30 December - Madrid - Toledo - Madrid

Today enjoy a full day (8 hours) excursion with your private vehicle and English-speaking guide to Toledo, a fortified city dating from Roman times, when it was the capital of Visigothic Spain. View the Cathedral, a blend of 13th, 14th and 15th century architecture, and the Church of Santo Tomé, housing El Greco's most famous painting 'Burial of Count Orgaz'.  Also visit the city's oldest and largest synagogue - the 12th century Santa Maria la Blanca Synagogue.

Alternative optional excursion 
extra charge:
Enjoy a cooking class in the home of an expert local chef.  The menu prepared and then, of course eaten, is chosen by you from a selection of many kinds of traditional Spanish dishes - from paella to tapas, or perhaps something typical of the festive season.

Overnight: Hotel Orfila

Meal Plan: B

Day 4 - 31 December - Madrid

This morning, before the city closes down at 2.00pm to prepare New Year's Eve, visit the Prado with an expert local guide. The Prado Museum is one of Madrid's main attractions - here you can inspect works by Spain's three great masters: Goya, Velazquez and El Greco amongst many other famous works.
The rest of the day is at leisure.
You may wish to choose from one of the following optional extras for your New Year’s Eve celebrations:
- A gala News Year's Eve dinner at one of Madrid’s finest venues. Sure to be an event filled with glitz and glamour, enjoy the exquisite food and lively musical entertainment.
- An attractive option could be the New Year's Eve dinner in the "Cafe de Chinitas" flamenco restaurant which, unlike many other places, stays open to celebrate. This promises to be a very lively and fun evening as you enjoy the delicious food and a whirlwind of colour in a special, traditional flamenco performance.
- Alternatively, follow in the footsteps of thousands of Madrileños and wander down to the Puerta del Sol square in the very centre of the city before midnight in order to eat the grapes as midnight chimes from the clock of the Town Hall. The celebrations here are transmitted on every television channel throughout the country. Full of atmosphere and excitement, this is a great option for those who wish to be in the midst of the city’s main celebration.

Overnight: Hotel Orfila

Meal Plan: B

Day 5 - 01 January - At Leisure

Madrid wakes up late this morning and you too will have some time at leisure to begin the year in your own way as the city slowly comes to life. Perhaps a stroll in the beautiful Retiro Park, next to the Hotel Hospes before making your way for some late morning tapas in the lively district around the Plaza Santa Ana (please note that many restaurants and all the museums will be closed today).
If you would like to begin the year with a really splendid meal, the renowned brunch at the Hotel Ritz is an excellent event. (a reservation can be made on your behalf).

Overnight: Hotel Orfila

Meal Plan: B

Day 6 - 02 January - Depart Madrid

Today you will be transferred to the Madrid airport by private vehicle with English-speaking driver to board your flight.

Meal Plan: B